DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically or cytologically confirmed ovarian epithelial cancer, primary peritoneal cancer, or fallopian tube cancer Refractory or recurrent disease after combination platinum and paclitaxel as only prior chemotherapy regimen Platinum resistant (i.e., refractory or relapsed within 6 months after completion of last therapy regimen) No more than 2 prior platinum and paclitaxel combination regimens Measurable disease No CNS metastases